What are nitazines, the drugs stronger than heroin that killed two people in the UK?
Image credits: Getty Images (Representative image)
There is no upside to consuming drugs. While one may feel a sudden high that makes them forget all the lows of life for a while, their health will only suffer from the consumption of drugs.
Take the case of a 28-year-old man and a 20-year-old woman who both died in suspected drug overdoses from highly potent synthetic opioids. An investigation into the "sudden deaths" of the man and woman in Southall on 26 May is underway, said the Metropolitan Police.
"This is following reports that the individuals allegedly passed away after taking an illicit substance in the form of a green pill," a spokesperson for the force added.
The Loop, a drug testing charity said the pills consumed by the two contained synthetic opioids called Nitazenes which can be "50 to 500 times stronger than heroin."
Ealing Council said that the pills consumed by the two people who died had the number 80 on one side and possibly 'OP' on the other. The Cause, a nightclub in East London posted about the pills on their Instagram account informing people that there have been "several hospitalizations across multiple London venues."
The West London council has also issued a warning on the same.
What are Nitazenes?
Image credits: Getty Images
Nitazenes are laboratory-made high-strength synthetic opioid drugs that have effects similar to heroin. Originally developed in 1950s by researchers in Switzerland as an alternative to morphine, it was abandoned in clinical trials due to concerns about harmful effects.
Since their effects can be 50 to 100 times higher than heroin, users have absolutely no idea of their potency.
Once inside, the drug suppresses the respiratory system which leads to people dying due to loss of breath. However, the symptoms can be reversed by taking Naloxone, an antidote.
A
study
published in The Lancet in 2024 stated that in the UK, nitazenes had been detected in substances sold as other opioids, benzodiazepines and cannabis products. Thus, one may not have any idea of what they are consuming and the risks they face.
Most recent government data from May 2023 to June 2024, stated that 18 deaths were linked to nitazenes in London and 179 in England.
According to an information
bulletin
by the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD), it was in 2019 that nitazenes emerged in the illicit drug market in Europe and spread to North America, South America, Asia and Oceania. Today, at least 13 different types of nitzenes are known and out of them the most prevalent is isonitazene (ISO).
ISO is 250 to 900 times more stronger than morphine and the most potent nitazene is up to 4,300 times stronger than morphine.
These drugs are highly addictive and lead to disorientation, seizures, central nervous system or respiratory depression, cardiac arrest and more.
Why and how do people use Nitazenes?
Well, for similar reasons they consume any other drug. Nitazenes are synthetically engineered to mimic the effects of traditional opioids, Thus, people may use them for physical, mental or emotional disorders or to experience similar euphoria, sleepiness and reduced pain as by opioids.
Nitazenes are available in numerous forms such as pills, powders, and sprays. Additionally, they can be pure or mixed with other drugs.
One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
9 hours ago
- Time of India
Morning vs Evening Yoga: What's the Best Time for Your Body and Mind?
Whoever thought that a 5,000 year old ancient tradition would become the healing source for millions of people across the globe? Yoga, a practice of exercise originating from India involves consistent coordinated movements of the body and mind to help people improve not only their physical but also mental and emotional health. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now It has become so popular and effective that in 2014, the United Nations proclaimed June 21 as the . While some love beginning their day with yoga, others prefer ending it with exercise. While the forms of yoga remain similar, the time differs. Does it matter and which time is better for your body and mind- morning or evening? Let's find out. Why morning yoga ? Image credits: Getty Images Beginning the day with an hour or more of yoga makes people feel energized and active to tackle the rest of their busy day. 'Starting your day with yoga in the morning is a guaranteed way to activate your muscle groups, energize your whole body, as well as stimulate the mind. Surya namaskar, or sun salutations, in the morning, are considered the best wake-up call for your body and mind. This ensures that you remain alert and focused throughout the day, translating into better productivity. " said Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, yoga guru and founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa. Benefits of morning yoga Image credits: Getty Images Doing yoga in the morning is known to awaken the body and the mind as it activates the circulation of oxygen throughout the body and increases alertness and readiness. It also improves digestion and metabolism by burning calories early in the morning. Mindful breathing practices in the early morning channelise your thoughts and clear brain fog. Mornings are much calmer and less noisy than evenings, thus you can build a routine of yoga every day and do it without any distractions. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Lastly, doing yoga around dawn, which is known as the Brahma muhurta aligns with yogic wisdom. Why evening yoga ? Image credits: Getty Images When compared to morning yoga, evening yoga is aimed at relaxation rather than energization. At this time, your body has moved around a lot and the mind has worked in ten different aspects. Thus, for a more relaxed feeling and sleep, people practice yoga to calm down. Benefits of evening yoga Image credits: Getty Images One of the biggest benefits of evening yoga is that at this time you can try out a lot of big stretching postures as the body is flexible after a day of movement. It relaxes tight and sore muscles and helps centre the mind. Most people practice yoga in the evening to deal with restless sleep as it helps lower the cortisol level, thus ensuring a deep sleep and a more energized and active morning. As mentioned before, yoga is not only effective on physical and mental health but also emotional health. After a long day of stress and anxiety-inducing events and conversations, balancing your emotions with an hour of yoga, helps you deal with them in a positive manner. Morning yoga or Evening yoga: Which is better? Image credits: Getty Images It all depends on your routine. For people who have more time in the mornings, morning yoga can be a good start for the day. However, for those who have rushed mornings and are more comparatively free during the evening, evening yoga is great. For people who like discipline and routine, morning yoga can be a better option as it aligns with a consistent routine and can be done every morning. But for people who thrive in the evenings, evening yoga can be perfect. Ideally, one should practice both morning and evening yoga. You can experiment with the timings depending on your needs for energization or calmness. If you don't have the time to do both, then try practicing in the morning for one week and evening for another and see which makes the mind and body feel better. No matter what the time is, it is more vital to practice yoga regularly as it ensures your positive health.
Time of India
12 hours ago
- Time of India
Ambubachi Mela 2025: Dates, rituals, and cultural significance
Credit: Getty Images Menstruation continues to be shrouded in stigma and restrictive behaviour in many parts of India, but there is one region that bucks the trend in the strongest possible way with worship. In Assam, menstruation is not avoided, but celebrated and honoured. This distinctive view comes alive during the Ambubachi Mela, a holy festival observed each year at the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati. Here, the natural process of the woman's body is revered as sacred, a sharp contrast to the hush and taboo that usually greets it elsewhere. About sacred mela Situated on the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Assam, the Kamakhya Temple is a grand representation of divine feminine and spiritual power. One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, this holy place attracts millions of devotees from all over the globe. Its most important festival is the Ambubachi Mela, an ancient and distinctive festival that celebrates the menstruation of Goddess Kamakhya. The 2025 festival will be a grand celebration of devotion, tradition, and cultural liveliness from June 22 to June 26. The Spiritual Significance Credit: Getty Images "Ambubachi" roughly translates to "spoken with water," referring to both the monsoon and the menstruation of the goddess. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Зачем на ночь сжигают лавровый лист? Undo The festival celebrates the yearly menstruation cycle of Goddess Kamakhya. It has its origins in Tantric mythology and tradition, representing Earth's fertility and creative potency. Legend has it that the yoni (womb) of Goddess Sati fell here during Shiva's Tandava dance. The festival gives respect for fertility, rebirth, and the protective forces of nature. Historically, it was also a period when agricultural activities came to a standstill. Ambubachi is not just a festival; it is a recognition of a natural biological phenomenon. The goddess's menstruation has been considered as a sign of creation, care, and change. The divine power is considered to be focused inside the temple during this time. The 2025 Schedule: Dates and Rituals The Ambubachi Mela 2025 will be held between June 22 and June 26. It starts at 8:43 AM on June 22 with the start of Snan (sacred bathing) and Nitya Puja (daily worship). The temple is closed to all people during these days since the goddess marks her menstruation period. The closing represents a time of rest, cleansing, and respect for the divine cycle. Credit: Getty Images The doors of the temple are closed around 6 AM on June 25, when the menstruation of the goddess is over and the ritual period concludes. On that day, the temple is cleansed, and the devotees are allowed to enter again. The re-entry is celebrated with fanfare, offerings, and prayers. What to expect during Ambubachi 2025 Attendees can anticipate a vibrant mix of spirituality, cultural festivities, and community gatherings. The atmosphere around Kamakhya Temple during the festival is charged with devotion, chanting, incense, and traditional music. Devotees, sadhus, tantriks, and curious visitors from across India and beyond converge here, creating a melting pot of cultures and faiths. Credit: Getty Images In Assam, the mindset regarding menstruation is more liberal than in much of India, where taboos result in prohibition and shaming. The festival's commemoration of "Rakta Bastar" (the goddess's blood) speaks to the festival's theme of respect for feminine power. Both women and men are allowed to come and participate in the celebration, which is a reminder of the universal nature of feminine power and spiritual awakening. This centuries-old custom, now also known as the "Mahakumbh of the East," beckons all to ponder the cycle of birth, rebirth, and holiness of natural existence. As the countdown begins, set your calendars for June 22-26, 2025, and soak in the spiritual magnificence and cultural diversity of Ambubachi. It is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see a deep celebration bring forth natural biological functions to a higher plane. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
India Today
19 hours ago
- India Today
7 positive effects yoga has on your life
7 positive effects yoga has on your life Credit: Getty Images Yoga is widely recognised as a holistic practice. From physical benefits to emotional resilience, on International Day of Yoga, here's how it can transform your life. Tight hamstrings? Stiff shoulders? Yoga gradually opens up the body, easing muscle tension and aligning your spine. Over time, this leads to better posture and reduced aches. Improves Flexibility and Posture Yoga builds functional strength using your body weight. Poses like the plank, chaturanga, or even holding a warrior stance engage muscles deeply, improving tone and endurance without the need for equipment. Boosts Strength Just a few minutes of deep breathing and mindful movement can shift your nervous system from fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest and reduce cortisol levels. Reduces Stress Regular yoga, especially restorative or evening flows—has been shown to improve sleep latency and quality. Improves Sleep Quality Twisting postures and abdominal stretches stimulate the digestive system. Coupled with breath control, yoga can support a healthy metabolism. Aids Digestion Yoga isn't just good for flexibility—it's good for your heart too. Studies show that it can lower blood pressure. Supports Heart Health Yoga makes you more attuned to your body's signals—whether it's recognising stress early or noticing how food, sleep, or emotions affect you. Mindfulness Yoga has several benefits when accompanied by exercise, it can be a great addition to your routine.
